Courts typically require a response within 20–30 days of service, though this varies by state. If you were served and have not yet filed a response, contact a legal aid office immediately. Not tomorrow — today.
This is educational information, not legal advice.
Your Action Plan: Responding to a Medical Debt Lawsuit
UrgentDo not ignore this. Simply filing a response prevents an automatic loss. Free legal help exists.
Start here
Find your response deadline on your court papers and contact a legal aid office at lawhelp.org today.
In your favor
Over 70% of people sued for medical debt lose because they never respond. Simply filing a response prevents an automatic loss.
Your Action Steps
Look at your court papers for a date by which you must respond. If you cannot find it, call the court clerk’s office — the phone number is on the paperwork. Courts typically require a response within 20–30 days. Missing this deadline results in an automatic default judgment against you.
Free legal help is available through the Legal Services Corporation. Visit lawhelp.org to find legal aid near you, or call your local bar association for pro bono attorney referrals. Even a brief consultation can help you avoid costly mistakes. Fewer than 10% of defendants in debt collection lawsuits have representation (Pew, 2024) — getting help puts you ahead.
Filing any response prevents a default judgment. If you cannot get legal help in time, file a basic Answer denying the allegations. Many courts have self-help centers with form answers. Include any defenses you know of — affirmative defenses not raised in your initial response may be difficult to raise later.
What to say
“I deny the allegations in the Complaint and demand that Plaintiff prove each element of its claim.”
Resources
Guides on This Topic
Free Tools & Organizations
Find free legal aid in your area. The Legal Services Corporation funds civil legal aid programs in every state.
Free nonprofit that helps patients apply for hospital charity care — even after a lawsuit has been filed.
Consumer guides, sample letters, and know-your-rights information for dealing with medical debt and lawsuits.
Create free legal documents for debt collection responses, including court answer forms, using guided interviews by state.
Educational Information Only
This information is educational and does not constitute legal, medical, or financial advice. Laws and programs vary by state and change over time. For complex situations — particularly lawsuits, wage garnishment, or situations involving large sums — consult a qualified attorney, patient advocate, or other professional. We connect you with free resources that can help.